Getting older, women face the same unpleasant signs of aging as men. In addition to the appearance of the first wrinkles and a slowdown in metabolism, I also speak of hair loss. Let’s talk about how androgenetic alopecia in women differs from male pattern baldness, and whether women and men can be treated equally.

Unfortunately, signs of male-pattern alopecia in women can occur quite early, as soon as at the age of 30 years.

The main causes of female androgenetic alopecia

Premature baldness, or androgenetic alopecia in women most often occurs in the case of a hereditary predisposition or due to disturbances in the endocrine system. In fact, most often, hair loss in women begins and progresses due to the effects of male hormones (androgens) on hair follicles.

A characteristic sign of male-type alopecia is hair loss in the parietal area, on both sides.

However, many other factors affect hair loss. Particularly, these factors include stress, unhealthy lifestyle, improper hair care, and even poor ecology. Improving any of these issues might help stop or at least delay hair loss.

According to statistics, in 40% of cases, female androgenetic alopecia manifests itself at the age of 60-70 years.

Androgenetic hair loss in women: How to start the treatment?

To diagnose and begin treatment, a woman with symptoms of male pattern baldness should consult a doctor. Specialists in this area include, first of all, an endocrinologist, a dermatologist and a trichologist. However, the easiest way is to contact your physician first. He will prescribe you medical tests and visits to specialists needed.

Any of them will most likely choose a comprehensive treatment. It may include topical preparations and medications which suppress the effect of androgens. In addition, a woman can count on the therapeutic effect of certain combined oral contraceptives. Anyway, do not pick birth control pills without consulting a doctor. You will also need hormone testing.

For a long time, scientists insisted that the popular highly effective drug against male pattern baldness Finasteride and its equivalents do not treat androgenic alopecia in women. Fortunately, recent studies show that it is not true. Women can quite successfully use Propecia and analogues to fight male-pattern alopecia, too.

However, keep in mind that this drug can harm an unborn baby. Do not use it during pregnancy!